UK MP Raises Alarm Over Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh, Urges British Government to Act

London | 16 January 2026 Conservative Party MP Bob Blackman has raised serious concerns in the British Parliament over alleged violence against Hindus and other religious minorities in Bangladesh, calling on the UK government to press the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus to ensure minority protection and democratic fairness ahead of upcoming elections. Speaking during a parliamentary session, Blackman alleged that Hindus in Bangladesh are facing brutal attacks, including murders, arson of homes, and the burning of temples. He warned that the situation reflects a wider deterioration in minority safety and religious freedom, alongside a growing influence of Islamist extremist groups in the country. Blackman pointed out that national elections scheduled for February 12 are being planned amid major democratic concerns. He highlighted that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League — a major political force with significant public support — has been banned from participating, raising doubts over the credibility and inclusiveness of the electoral process. He also cautioned against calls by extremist groups for a constitutional referendum that could permanently alter Bangladesh’s secular framework. Demanding accountability, Blackman urged the UK Foreign Secretary to clarify what steps the Labour government would take to safeguard minorities and push for free, fair, and inclusive elections. He was joined by MPs Jim Shannon, Jas Athwal, and Chris Law, who recently issued a joint statement expressing concern over the ban on mainstream political parties in Bangladesh. India has also voiced concern over the recurring attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi continues to observe a disturbing pattern of communal violence and stressed that such incidents must be addressed “swiftly and firmly.” Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina remains in exile in India after being ousted during violent protests last year, while a Bangladeshi court has sentenced her to death over alleged crimes against UK MP Sounds Alarm on Bangladesh Violence, Calls for Action to Protect Hindus and Democracy UK Conservative MP Bob Blackman has raised strong concerns in the British Parliament over alleged violence against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, urging the Labour government to press the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus to ensure their safety and uphold democratic values. Highlighting reports of killings, arson, and temple burnings, Blackman warned that religious minorities are facing growing threats amid a rising influence of extremist groups. He stressed that such incidents point to a serious breakdown of law, order, and minority protection in the country. The MP also questioned the credibility of Bangladesh’s upcoming February 12 elections, noting that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League — a major political party with significant public support — has been banned from contesting. He cautioned that elections held under such conditions cannot be considered fully free or inclusive. Blackman demanded that the UK Foreign Secretary clarify what steps the government will take to safeguard minorities and promote fair elections. India has echoed similar concerns, with its External Affairs Ministry urging Bangladesh to deal firmly and swiftly with repeated attacks on minorities.